CPI(M) petitions for probe into Pendurthi MLA’s alleged ballot violation in city elections

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has filed a petition with the District Collector demanding legal action against Pendurthi MLA Panchakarla Ramesh Babu and the polling staff involved in the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation elections on November 1. Party district secretary M. Jaggunaidu claims the MLA cast votes for mayoral and corporator candidates at Booth No. 115/8 in Ward 115, a booth where he was not entitled to vote. He says the booth officials handed ballot papers to the legislator, contravening election law. The complaint argues that such conduct undermines confidence in the electoral system. CPI(M) leaders have asked for a full investigation and punitive measures against both the MLA and the officials. The party says it has already forwarded complaints to the State Election Commissioner and to the Returning Officers overseeing the Pendurthi zone of the GVMC. The petition seeks a thorough inquiry to determine whether the alleged breach occurred and to hold responsible parties accountable.

Context

Local municipal elections in Visakhapatnam determine the mayor and ward representatives who manage city services. Allegations of voting irregularities in such polls can fuel public distrust and may lead to legal scrutiny by election authorities.